Cook County Judge Blocks ICE Arrests at Courthouses

Thu Oct 16 2025 14:11:02 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A significant order from Cook County's chief judge prohibits ICE from making arrests at courthouses, addressing fears in the community and advocating for accessible justice.

In response to increasing ICE activity outside courthouses, Cook County's chief judge has signed an order that prevents federal agents from arresting individuals who are part of court proceedings. This decision comes amid rising concerns from legal advocates and residents alike, who have expressed fears about attending court due to potential detentions. The move is seen as a critical step towards ensuring that citizens can access the judicial process without fear.

CHICAGO — In a landmark decision, Cook County’s chief judge has signed an order that prohibits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from arresting individuals within or around courthouses. This ruling comes amid widespread concerns regarding recent immigration enforcement strategies that have involved detaining individuals at courthouses, leading to protests and fear among those seeking justice.

The order, effective immediately, restricts ICE from making civil arrests of any “party, witness, or potential witness” involved in court proceedings. This includes prohibiting arrests taking place inside courthouses and adjacent areas like parking lots and sidewalks.

The chief judge emphasized that ensuring the fair administration of justice necessitates open access to the courts, allowing litigants and witnesses to attend without fear of arrest. This recent ruling follows increased reports from local immigration advocates, who noted a significant uptick in ICE’s presence outside courthouses and the subsequent fear it instilled in clients seeking legal recourse.

Cruz Rodriguez, an assistant public defender, shared that many clients faced difficult dilemmas, weighing the risks of attending court against the possibility of being arrested by ICE. Advocates from domestic violence organizations also supported the initiative after witnessing arrests occurring even during critical court appearances.

While the Department of Homeland Security defended the arrest practices outside courthouses, stating that there are no legal sanctuaries to avoid arrest, the ruling from Judge Timothy Evans has been hailed as a necessary measure to protect individuals’ rights and ensure fair legal proceedings.

The tactic of conducting arrests at courthouses has faced increasing scrutiny nationwide, with several states filing lawsuits and passing legislation to block such actions. Recently, downstate lawmakers have voiced intentions to introduce resolutions condemning federal immigration enforcement practices, echoing sentiments of justice and democracy.

In addition to legal actions, community efforts to monitor and oppose ICE activities have intensified, with groups organizing events to raise awareness and bolster support for those facing potential detentions.

The escalating confrontation between community advocates and federal immigration agents raises important questions regarding the balance of enforcing immigration laws while protecting individuals' access to justice. As local leaders vow to continue advocating for safe spaces, the Cook County decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement in courts.